Letter: Finding teachers
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: How I cringed to learn of the launch of "teacherline", the new national helpline offering counselling and support to the profession (report, 8 September). Is it not appalling that teachers, like bullied and abused children, have to resort to a telephone service for advice and guidance?
Whilst I in no way wish to denounce the very real value of counselling support, it must be made clear that it is an individualisation of a structural problem, and in my view is unlikely to be of much benefit to the vast numbers of defeated, disillusioned teachers who will continue to be absent through long-term sickness or simply leave.
The secondary school from which I recently resigned offered in-house counselling for staff, but it was viewed with great scepticism, even disdain by me and many of my colleagues. It seemed to be offered instead of, rather than as well as, practical, professional support.
The teaching unions and Estelle Morris, Education and Employment Minister, are endorsing "teacherline" but the real solution to high stress levels and low recruitment figures is a fundamental change in the funding and structure of our education service.
Can we now look forward to the launch of "nurseline" and "juniordoctorline"?
BARBARA BENSON
Bristol
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments